APPLE - HEALTH BENEFITS

Apple , botanically known as Malus sylvestris, belons to family Rosaceae. In Sanskrit it is known as Sevi. Apples are cultivated in most of hilly regions of India over estimated area of 40,000 acres. The more important parts where most apple grow are Kashmir, Jammu, Srinagar, Nainital, Almora, Simla etc. The types cultivated in India are mostly introduced from UK and other European countries including USA. A few have been introduced from Australia

Fruits are used. It is antacid, nutritive, tranquillizer, anti uricaemic, anti diarrhoeic, cardiotonic . It contains proteins , fat, fibre, carbohydrate, calcium, potassium, phosphorus, b-carotene, vit. B1, B2, niacin, vit. C, sodium, chlorine, sulphur, copper, invert sugar, sucrose, malic acid, tannin.

MEDICINAL USES

An apple a day keeps  the doctor away an old saying which is still true because it is very effective for many diseases

Anti scorbutic- Aples are considered valuable as anti scorbutic fruit. Regular intake of apples ensures overall health , especially that of skin, bones and teeth

Helps reduce cholesterol: Pectin and polyphenols, which are present in apples help prevent the oxidation of bad cholesterol, thereby bringing down cholesterol levels. The skin of the apple is considered to have a higher concentration of these antioxidants than the flesh, so don’t throw out those peels!

Helps in preventing cancer- Antioxidants present in an apple can help in reducing the risk of cancer as they stabilise harmful compounds which can damage our DNA and signal the beginnings of cancer.

Reduces risk of cardiovascular diseases - Apples are a rich source of flavonoids. Studies show that consumption of these important flavonoids cuts the risk of cardiovascular diseases by almost 35%!

Helps keep breathing problems in check: Studies have shown a direct relationship between apples and general pulmonary health. Flavonoids play a part here as well, decreasing the risk of breathing problems like asthma, lung cancer and bronchial hypersensitivity.

Helps in controlling diabetes- Quercetin, a flavanol found in apples has been known to reduce the risk of type II diabetes. Quercetin, just like pectin and polyphenols is present in higher quantities in the apple peel.

Aids in weight loss:  Studies have shown that consumption of two or three apples a day can help in weight loss. Apples are packed with fibre, making you feel “full”, thereby preventing the consumption of too many calories. So, the next time you experience hunger pangs, reach out and grab this glossy, crunchy and delicious fruit!

Helps in keeping your teeth clean: Many a people call an apple, nature’s tooth pick. Their crisp texture cleans teeth and kills bacteria present in the mouth keeping tooth decay at bay.

Anemia- Apple is a natural source of colloidal iron that does not cause diarrhea and it suits all kind of people deficient in iron

Experts suggest having two to three apples to derive maximum benefits. So add an apple in your daily diet.